Immigrant-background voters in Germany drift from mainstream parties, study shows

According to a study by the German Center for Integration and Migration Research, more than seven million German voters—about 12% of the electorate—have an immigrant background. While the Social Democratic Party remains the most attractive option for two-thirds of these voters, the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union is a close second, and only one in five completely dismisses both blocs. The Alternative for Germany registers the lowest appeal, with nearly two-thirds of respondents ruling it out.

Researchers note a generational shift, with younger immigrants moving away from the SPD, and point to safety and anti-discrimination issues as key concerns. The Turkish Community in Germany highlights the AfD’s targeted outreach to Turkish voters, yet also observes broader skepticism toward new migrants among immigrant groups. Political scientists argue that established parties are failing to mobilize the growing immigrant electorate, which could exceed half of the population by 2030.